The Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA) is alive with the sounds of Shakespeare’s legacy in the latest National Tour, & Juliet.
This vibrant show, helmed by pop music maestro Max Martin, delivers an exhilarating soundtrack that transforms familiar melodies into a narrative feast.
A visual spectacle, & Juliet shines with the remarkable costume design by Paloma Young, beautifully complemented by the hair and make-up artistry of J. Jared Janas.
Their work embodies a Renaissance Reborn aesthetic, perfectly blending historical elements with lively pop culture references.
The scenic design by Soutra Gilmour captivates the audience with its stunning aesthetic, enhanced by Howard Hudson’s imaginative lighting design that ensures seamless transitions throughout the performance.
The creativity of this production clearly extends far beyond its visual elements.
The ensemble cast delivered an electrifying performance, leaving the audience in awe with their impressive individual contributions.
Naima Alakham’s portrayal of Juliet’s Maid, Angelique, offers an endearing older sister dynamic, a refreshing departure from the traditional motherly depiction.
Her vocals rang true to the character’s essence, showcasing her talent as she steps into the role despite being an understudy.
Mateus Leite Cardoso’s performance as Frankie was equally compelling; he beautifully captured the character’s sweet, awkward charm as he navigates the trials of young love.
Cardoso’s voice adds depth to his character, resonating with both tenderness and strength.
Nick Drake introduced audiences to May, an intriguing new character crafted for this retelling of the beloved tale.
Drake’s incredible voice brings a unique energy to the ensemble, but it is the nuanced softness of his portrayal that truly captivates.
As Shakespeare himself, Corey Mach embodies a blend of imperfection and charm, delivering a performance that balances arrogance with an unexpected suaveness.
Mach’s rendition reflects an authentic interpretation of the playwright, infusing the character with a complex, albeit rude, appeal.
Paul-Jordan Jansen shines in his dual role as Lance, showcasing the heart and humor necessary for the character’s loveable father figure.
Jansen’s entrance alone exudes the warmth and care that this role requires, quickly endearing him to the audience.
A standout feature of the production is its focus on empowered leading ladies.
Teal Wicks’s portrayal of Anne Hathaway, Shakespeare’s wife, balances fun and vulnerability.
Wicks serves as the narrative catalyst, steering the story forward, yet her character’s motivations evolve deeply throughout the performance.
Her chemistry with Mach transforms Shakespeare into a less insufferable figure, allowing the audience to appreciate his complexities.
Rachel Simone Webb, as the titular Juliet, captivates with a sense of pride that resonates deeply.
Her performance radiates an effortless brilliance that connects with the audience in a profound way, evoking emotions akin to those felt for a lifelong friend.
Webb’s vocal prowess shines brightly from beginning to end, making her portrayal a memorable aspect of the show.
What truly surprised many viewers was the heartwarming nature of & Juliet, a term not lightly bestowed.
The show operates like a warm embrace, drawing on familiar narratives while ensuring relatability across various character experiences.
Each character seems to symbolize different phases of life, allowing audiences to reflect on their own journeys—from self-discovery to the search for love and personal growth.
Through its mix of humor, emotion, and a modern twist on a classic story, & Juliet emerges not only as a retelling of Shakespeare but as a vibrant celebration of life and love.
image source from：https://www.broadwayworld.com/denver/article/Review-The-Renaissance-is-Reborn-in-JULIET-at-DCPA-20250613
